Foot+Binding

 Foot Binding Back to The Concept of Beauty Page

**WHERE** d id foot binding take place? Foot binding originated in ancient China.

**WHO** partici pated in f oot binding? Foot binding usually started when a girl was very young, and continued as they moved to womanhood. Approximately 4.5 billion Chinese women participated.

**WHEN** did foot binding start? This cultural ritual started in the 10th century and lasted approximately a thousand years.

 What did foot binding **SYMBOLIZE**? Foot binding symbolized beauty and status for Chinese women. It was a culturally accepted practice that was first performed by only wealthy women. As the culture evolved, more and more women began binding their feet. Foot binding was seen as erotic and a symbol of chastity. Also, it limited the woman's movement which resulted in limiting her involvement in society.

**TODAY** in China Women today no longer practice foot binding. However, some elderly women who bound their feet as young girls are still alive today. The current concept of beauty in China includes a thin, tall frame; straight, long, silky hair; and open eyelids. Some men have gone to extreme measures of leg-lengthening surgery to make themselves taller. Also, some Chinese have undergone eyelid surgery to make their eyes appear more open.

 A few worthwhile **LINKS** containing more information: [|The Process of Foot Binding] [|An Overview of Foot Binding] [|An Great Article from NPR]

 A **VIDEO** to check out... media type="custom" key="3233678"

Image: http://archives.starbulletin.com/1998/03/10/features/art.gif Sources: http://sa21.wordpress.com/2006/10/18/the-concept-of-beauty-in-china-today/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Footbinding

Back to The Concept of Beauty Page